27 Sep 06
The one big thing that wasn't quite right about the Spec B version of the Subaru Legacy was the way it delivered its power.
The one big thing they've just changed about the Spec B is the way it delivers its power. And - ta-dah! - they've made a fantastic job of it.
Previously, the figures were good - 6.5 seconds 0-60mph, 151mph top speed - but the whole powertrain felt slightly distant. On the automatic version, the five-speed box was weirdly hesitant when changing in regular auto mode and inclined to hold on to a gear for too long. It was better in Sport, but still left you wondering if the engine had more to give.
Wonder no more.
Instead, marvel at the way the new Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) system unleashes the potential of the boxer engine, which has also benefited from improved breathing.
SI-Drive involves a three-way switch that remaps the black box to give three starkly different levels of engine response.
'Intelligent' is economy mode, converting the Legacy into a dawdling family wagon: it's designed to make the 3.0-litre six feel like a 2.0-litre four with a sponge where the accelerator used to be.
'Sport' makes the car feel pretty much like the Spec B used to feel.
